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Kirkland boost for Wigan

By Alex Dunn

Wigan's Chris Kirkland is expected to be passed fit for Sunday's game against Arsenal.

Wigan have been handed a boost with news that goalkeeper Chris Kirkland is expected to be passed fit for Sunday's game against Arsenal.

Kirkland missed England's defeat to Spain on Wednesday at Old Trafford with a slight shoulder problem.

He has, though, responded well to treatment and is set to return to full training on Friday with a view to making Sunday's game at Emirates Stadium.

"It was a precaution to pull him out of the England squad, we felt that the shoulder could be aggravated if Chris had done an intensive week's training with England, and possibly played a part in the game, when what he needed this week was rest," Latics physiotherapist Alan Tomlinson told the club's official website.

"He has received treatment from us and been doing light training only, just to maintain fitness.

"But he will be fine to resume full training with the ball on Friday with goalkeeping coach Gary Walsh and the rest of the squad, with a view to playing on Sunday at Arsenal."